Make Your Own Magic: General Motors & EPCOT in 1989

In 1989, General Motors produced a VHS video for its employees titled “Make Your Own Magic.” The video guided employees through Walt Disney World and spotlighted the company’s sponsorship of EPCOT Center’s World of Motion attraction. Blending nostalgia, corporate pride, and Disney innovation, it offers a snapshot of two iconic American brands at the peak of their partnership.

A Tour with Purpose

More than just a promotional video, “Make Your Own Magic” served as a behind-the-scenes introduction to Walt Disney World for GM employees. The narrator sets the tone with a message that still resonates:

“We live in a world of endless possibilities… At the Walt Disney World Resort, the ways to make our own kind of magic are endless, exciting worlds within worlds… Now is the time for you to make your own magic.”

The video invites employees to explore Disney through the lens of innovation, creativity, and family-friendly fun—values that both Disney and GM proudly uphold.

Spotlight on World of Motion

At the heart of the presentation is World of Motion, an original EPCOT attraction that opened in 1982. Sponsored by General Motors, the ride took guests on a humorous journey through the history of transportation—from foot power to futuristic possibilities. The video highlights GM’s role in bringing this attraction to life and explains how the partnership extended beyond branding into storytelling, engineering, and guest experience.

Employees as Ambassadors

“Make Your Own Magic” also featured GM employees visiting Walt Disney World and recommending must-see attractions. Their testimonials gave the video a personal and authentic touch, blending corporate messaging with real enthusiasm. Whether exploring Future World or walking through the Magic Kingdom, GM employees proudly acted as ambassadors of both their company and the Disney magic.

Make Your Own Magic GM’s Legacy at EPCOT

General Motors was EPCOT Center’s founding transportation sponsor and maintained its support for decades. The partnership not only brought World of Motion to life but also helped shape Test Track, the ride that would eventually replace it. The 1989 video serves as a time capsule of this long-standing relationship and how it elevated the theme park experience.

A Disney Time Capsule

For Disney and GM enthusiasts, “Make Your Own Magic” is more than just a promotional tape. It’s a rare look into the spirit of corporate sponsorship in the golden era of EPCOT. Thanks to online restorations, fans can still view the video today and reflect on a time when corporate storytelling and Disney magic joined forces to inspire employees and guests alike.

World of Motion was eventually replaced with GM Test Track and updated to what I call Test Track 2.0. Make Your Own Magic GM EPCOT